The University of Chicago School Mathematics Project (UCSMP) was started
under the direction of Prof. Zalmud Usiskin in 1983. The first work was in
the development of six texts Transition Math (Pre-algebra) through
Precalculus/Discrete Math.
The difference in the writing of these texts is that everyday mathematics
teachers were involved with professional mathematicians and there were
constant applications of the information. The books were written, field
tested in the schools, revised and then published. Continued testing goes on
with controlled and users groups. The user groups consistently outscore
other students on standardized tests. There has been a complete second
revision of these texts. The University continues training of new users of
their materials during regular in-service sessions in August and November.
The materials are published by:
Scott Foresman
1900 East Lake Ave.
Glenview IL 60025
1-800-554-4411
In addition, there is a K-6 curriculum with accompanying teacher in-service.
These materials are published by the:
Everday Learning Corporation
PO Box 1479
Evanston IL 60204-1479
1-800-382-7670.
Both K-6 and 7-12 users are provided with a free newsletter that is
published in the fall and the spring.
What distinguishes the UCSMP 7-12 materials from other text series is that
the students are expected to read the text, answer questions on the reading,
apply the information presented and constantly review not only the last
section or chapter but perhaps the last text. The texts are well
structured. I have taught from two texts in the series and support the
philosophy behind the texts.
-Marielouise, for the Teacher2Teacher servic